According to Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda, Raila Odinga won't be allowed to participate in local politics if elected chair of the African Union Commission (AUC).
Ojienda contends that since the AUC is the official representation of the African Union, Raila must act as a Pan-Africanist.
"Raila Amollo Odinga won't have time to involve himself with the local politics of this country," Ojienda said.
The senator contended that Raila would not only be able to participate in other local responsibilities if his work at the AU would be more relaxed.
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"This claim that His Excellency Raila Amollo Odinga will lead Azimio even in the event of an election is untrue," he declared on the Citizen TV Daybreak program yesterday.
Ojienda added that the Azimio leader's experience serving AU as a special envoy for infrastructure development makes him a strong candidate for the role of AUC chairperson.
On Wednesday in Homa Bay, Raila refuted rumors that the AU position would force him to leave Kenya's political scene.
He pledged to continue participating in local politics, pointing out that Nairobi is close to the African Union's Addis Ababa headquarters.
"I'm not leaving. Nairobi is only two hours away from Addis Ababa. I'm available and will answer the phone if someone calls. "I'm eager to collaborate with all of you," declared Raila.
African Union presidential candidate Raila has garnered significant backing from Kenyan officials, headed by President William Ruto.
Yoweri Museveni, the president of Uganda, has also endorsed him.
